On Outreach & Training: It’s All About the Kids
Bringing Student Board Representatives to the Table
By Lori GrantDecisions about policies, budgets, and long-term goals are often made by adults in school districts, but there is a growing movement to bring student board members into the decision-making process, driven by these five words: It’s all about the kids. At IASB, we have developed guidance for boards considering inclusion of student representatives at the table, as well as guidance for the students themselves.
“Being a part of the board allows me to be a voice for students and allow the big decision makers to hear that voice,” says Amulya Girada, a student representative to the Edwardsville CUSD 7 school board. “It’s extremely important to me to come about this position holistically and try to all my peer’s opinions and ideas, so the board has a full understanding of the data and current issues pertinent at school.”
The Illinois School Code allows a board of education to appoint a student to the board to serve in an advisory capacity for a term the board determines (105 ILCS 5/10-10). The student may not vote or attend any closed or “executive” session of the board. A board that desires to include a policy to appoint a student member may refer to sample PRESS policy 2:40, Board Member Qualifications, and its footnotes.
Preparing Tomorrow’s Board Members
Giving students the opportunity to experience board work could prepare them to be the next civic leaders. Including students in the governance process can give students the opportunity to advocate for their peers while experiencing local democracy in action and developing essential skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
“Having a voice for the … Board of Education has given me the opportunity to share ideas and opinions from myself, my friends, and my community while learning the intricacies of school operations,” says Michael Dierkes, a student representative to the Lockport THSD 205. “It has required me to not only think from the perspective of the student, but also of faculty, parents, and taxpayers.”
The benefit is not exclusive to the students, however. A youth presence can result in new energy at the table, and often board members are more aware of the responsibility to model ideal board behaviors and processes.
“Having students at the table reminds all our elected board members and everyone who attends the board meeting or speaks at public comment of why we are there, to support students,” says Robert McBride, Ed.D., Superintendent of Lockport THSD 205. “Our student board members have provided the entire board with invaluable advice that has motivated the … board to make investments in school counselors, ELL teachers, facilities improvements, and courses students would like to see offered. Student board members have provided a reliable, important perspective for elected board members to routinely consider.”
The Role of Student Board Members
Student board members cannot participate in closed session meetings or receive closed session materials, and though their vote is advisory-only, they can participate in much of the board’s work, including:
- Attend open meetings.
- Receive all open session materials.
- Openly express opinions and advocate for their peers.
- Be appointed to subcommittees.
- Attend other functions of the board, including professional development.
Overcoming Challenges to Student Representation
Some adult board members may question whether students have the maturity or experience to contribute meaningfully to governance. It is indeed an additional commitment, and the board must prepare itself to ensure its members are ready to welcome students to the table.
In our IASB guidance, “Bringing Student Representatives to the School Board Table,” a readiness assessment checklist can help the board evaluate its ability to have meaningful youth representation. This can help everyone involved comprehend the adjustments necessary and measure their commitment to these changes. Examples of questions the board can ask include:
- Does the board have the time and resources to make a commitment to effective youth representation?
- Is the board willing to adjust its culture to make meetings youth-friendly?
- Does the board’s culture promote open discussion?
- Is there time for all representatives (including young people) to speak at meetings?
In the end, it’s all about the kids. With proper preparation and processes in place, the inclusion of students in public school governance can be mutually beneficial for the adults and the students at the board table.
Lori Grant is Associate Executive Director for Outreach, Training & Events with IASB. Resources associated with this column, including the guidance document “Bringing Student Representatives to the Board Table,” can be accessed via iasb.com/Journal.